How Can I be A Sourcers' Apprentice?

This was a question asked of me earlier in the week. The answer is simple- you can’t. Everyone who has anything to do with sales, with recruiting, with dealing in relationships between staff and customers all have their own way of achieving the end result. For them to use my moniker, they would have to take a really long walk in my shoes, and see things through my eyes. I am fortunate to have really good people around me who respect my opinions and are extremely open with theirs. We realize between us that a good professional is not produced overnight, but over months and months, practicing the skills needed, learning the techniques and moulding them to my format of individuality; and hopefully after all is said and done, a truly good professional will be created.

I come into this field with well over 35 years of experience in what I call the “Professional People Pleasing” industry. I cut my teeth on long hours stocking shelves, mopping floors, carrying orders out for customers, and when all the skill in that area was mastered; then moved to customer relations. This led to a long career in retail, with all its intricacies and many days where nothing was accomplished due to matters beyond anyones control, and where deadlines had to met by any means necessary. Always Be Closing became a lifestyle as well as a mantra, as I walked the fine line between my staff and what was expected of them; and our customers and what they expected from the store. The store carries a reputation, it also carries the personal reputation of everyone working there. If enough bad service is given/ received; the store will go out of business—Its been proven many times in the past by many of the most original concept designers in the retail trade.

Coming to this group of people, I realize I possess only a small piece of what is needed to succeed. By listening carefully and doing all the time consuming, repetitious tasks, will I learn how Slot A fits in Tab B; and what progress really means. In the beginning of any adventure, just like going to school, or learning a new skill, silence is golden and alot of time will be spent on the small things. When enough small pieces come together, then you have larger parts of the puzzle to work with………..and so on.

I am really privileged to be where I am, Learning new skills everyday, working with those who are the best at what they do in my eyes (Thanks Rebecca and Geoff); and who honestly just wish to see me successful.

Sourcers’ Apprentice…..There really is and will ever be only one, and that is me. There are plenty of sourcers out there, and recruiters, but in my mind, your have to be willing to admit you know less than you do to expand your tools and your career. Enjoy the ride, the view and the people who take an honest view of your success. At the end of the day, your success will become part of their success, and the circle continues……….